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Drama in Ekiti as Fayose Wears PDP Cap to APC Endorsement Rally for Tinubu and Oyebanji
A political spectacle unfolded in Ekiti State over the weekend as former Governor Ayodele Fayose, a chieftain of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), attended a major endorsement rally for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — while boldly wearing a PDP cap. The move, viewed by many as both theatrical and controversial, has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s political space, further deepening internal crises within the PDP in Ekiti State.
The endorsement rally, which took place at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, was organized by various political stakeholders, support groups, and community leaders backing Tinubu’s reelection and Governor Oyebanji’s continued leadership.
Fayose’s Unconventional Appearance
Despite being a known PDP stalwart and former two-term governor of the state, Fayose mounted the stage in a clearly visible PDP cap, even as he showered praises on the APC-led government at the federal and state levels. In his words:
“Governor Oyebanji is doing well, and we must support him to continue. I will never join APC, but I must say the truth regardless of party lines.”
The crowd cheered, but political tongues quickly began wagging as Fayose, while disowning APC membership, openly called on Ekiti people to vote for Tinubu in 2027 and Oyebanji in 2026. The cap on his head — a symbol of PDP identity — intensified the buzz.
PDP Outrage and Threat of Expulsion
The Ekiti State chapter of the PDP reacted with swift condemnation. In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Jackson Adebayo, the party described Fayose’s conduct as a betrayal and embarrassment.
“Fayose’s presence and endorsement of APC candidates at such a high-profile event amount to anti-party activities. Wearing our party's cap while campaigning for another party is unacceptable,” the statement read.
Party insiders revealed that disciplinary action is being considered, with expulsion not ruled out. A disciplinary committee is reportedly compiling reports on Fayose’s repeated fraternization with the ruling party.
Family Tension and Political Divergence
In a separate development, Otunba Emmanuel Ajisafe Fayose, a younger brother to the ex-governor and a PDP governorship aspirant, distanced himself from his brother’s political decisions. He stated publicly:
“My brother has his path, and I have mine. I will contest and win the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti, with or without his support.”
The comment further illustrates the widening gap within the Fayose political dynasty and signals internal power realignment ahead of the coming elections.
Oyebanji and APC React Positively
Governor Oyebanji, the central figure of the rally, welcomed the cross-party endorsements and thanked Fayose for recognizing his administration’s strides. He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance:
“Ekiti belongs to all of us. This endorsement is about development, not party division.”
The governor noted that more than 300 groups, including traditional rulers, youth organizations, and civil society bodies, had affirmed their support for his leadership.
A Familiar Pattern
This is not the first time Fayose has defied party lines in public. He has, on multiple occasions, endorsed Oyebanji since 2023, citing his developmental efforts and non-partisan approach to governance.
In January 2025, Fayose declared support for Oyebanji's second term bid, stating:
“If you’re doing well, even your enemies will speak for you. I won't deny the truth. Oyebanji deserves another term.”
Despite his loyalty to PDP, Fayose has consistently prioritized performance over party — a strategy many believe is either political pragmatism or subtle realignment.
Public and Political Reactions
Political commentators have described Fayose’s actions as “classic vintage Fayose” — a man who courts controversy and thrives in unpredictability. Some see it as a strategic calculation to stay relevant and retain grassroots influence, while others view it as political confusion and ideological inconsistency.
Meanwhile, APC loyalists have seized the moment, presenting it as proof that even opposition leaders recognize the Tinubu-Oyebanji administration’s performance.
What Lies Ahead
- For PDP: The party faces a tough decision. Expelling Fayose could spark a factional crisis; ignoring his actions might signal weakness.
- For Fayose: The ex-governor may continue playing the role of “elder statesman” without clear partisan boundaries, but his influence within PDP is clearly under threat.
- For APC: The endorsement strengthens the re-election campaigns of Tinubu and Oyebanji, giving them political leverage ahead of 2026 and 2027.
- For Ekiti Politics: This drama may be a preview of intense political showdowns to come, with shifting loyalties, new power blocs, and unpredictable moves.
Ayodele Fayose's appearance at the APC rally — decked in PDP attire — has blurred partisan lines and intensified political drama in Ekiti State. Whether interpreted as political strategy or ideological contradiction, one thing is clear: the battle for Ekiti’s political soul has officially begun.
Byline:
Samson Balogun | Political Desk
Reporting from Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria